Alternator/Belt Help for new owner

[GoneAgain]

Hello all, I’m new to this site and this is my first posting and first Porsche. It’s a 01 Boxster S. Bought it out of state and chose to drive it back home (about 600 miles through the mountains, great fun!) I got about 400 miles on the way home and the alternator went. I had it shipped the remainder of the way home. I replace the Alternator with a rebuilt but the replacement had a pulley that was a little bit larger than the original. (about ¼ inch). I got the belt on, but have no play in the tension pulley. It is maxed out. The belt is newer, has 5000 miles on it so I figured it was still good(?).

I don’t know if I can drive the car with the belt maxed like that but Im not sure. I have not drove the car any distance but just to test it out after replacing the alternator (3 miles).

Think I have three options: 1. don’t worry about it. 2. Get a new alternator and replace it, 3. find a replacement belt that is about a inch longer. I would like to do option 3 but don’t know if they make such a belt. any suggestions/ thoughts is greatly appreciated?

[JAAY]

I would see if anyone here has an alternator for you or correct pulley. Or you could put in a under drive pulley and get some performance and make some room on the belt.

[Eric G]

IMO, I suggest that you look for a replacement pulley if possible or longer belt. Having the tension pulley maxed out will put additional strain on your bearings on your accessories and you will run the risk of premature wear. Here is a pulley for $43 bucks from Pelican: Pelican Parts - Product Information: 997-603-154-00-M14

[GoneAgain]

Thanks for the info. I talked to the Auto parts guy and he double checked the Alt and said that the one they sold me was for the Automatic not manual. The have another one on order. This should take to long to install since it is my second time around..lol

[Eric G]

Always good to hear about a problem solved. Enjoy your Boxster as it is going to be an addiction to say the least!